William Penn might, with reason, boast of having brought down upon earth the Golden Age, which in all probability, never had any real existence but in his dominions. ~ Voltaire
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Voltaire praised Penn's governance as an idealistic utopia on earth.
- In plain terms
- Penn created a society that seemed like a perfect Golden Age.
- What can you take from it?
- Governance can create near-ideal conditions for its citizens.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What makes a golden age?
- Is utopia achievable?
Another view
It relies on external praise rather than internal reality.
More from William Penn
No men, nor number of men upon earth, hath power or authority to rule over men's consciences in religious matters.
Permalink to quote #42 It was the only treaty made by the settlers with the Indians that was never sworn to, and the only one that was never broken. ~ Voltaire, contrasting Penn's tr…
Permalink to quote #44 I expect to pass through this world but once. Any good thing, therefore, that I can do or any kindness I can show to any fellow human being let me do it now. L…
Permalink to quote #41
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